Tuesday, June 10th, 2014

THE FOUR P'S OF PLAYING SHOWS: 3. PERFORMANCE

BandZoogle provides us with their steps towards putting on an awesome live show.

Show time has arrived. After much preparation and promotion, it’s finally time to walk the walk. A good performance can be very subjective because characteristics change depending on many factors, one being the genre. However, here are 3 universal characteristics of a live performance:

1. Passion

Why would your fans care about your music if you don’t? As the great Charles Bradley said, “I sing every time like it's the last show I'm doing.” Seeing someone on stage, completely in love with what they are doing is the most inspiring act to witness. People will know if you care within the first few minutes of watching you, so you have to convince them to care too.

2. Spontaneity

Hopefully, the fans that have decided to come to your show have heard your music off of your album already. And if they want to hear it just as it is on the album, they wouldn’t come out to the show. They’ve taken time to see you, so give them something new. Don’t be afraid to be spontaneous on stage, but more importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks and be vulnerable. Nothing new will ever come from old practices.

3. Audience Participation

You’re not playing at them, you’re playing with them. Whether you get them to clap along, hold you up as you crowd surf, or dance underneath a huge, colorful parachute as you perform (like what Rich Aucoin did at the Osheaga Festival), audience participation matters. The video of his unique performance is linked to the article and it’s clear to see that he’s creating a very memorable experience.

Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Having fun is the best way to put on a great performance.

To read more, check out Dave Cool's article on BandZoogle and stay tuned for part 4, coming soon!